The Manger, a Bassinet for Jesus

The Gospel writer Luke tells of the night Jesus was born in Bethlehem:

8 Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. 10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 “For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 “And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: 14 “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (2:8-14).

What comes to your mind when you read of Jesus’ lying in a manger? Our photo shows a manger (located in Caesarea Maritima) which illustrates that which served as a bassinet for Jesus as an infant.

I never cease to be amazed at the thought! Eternal Deity, Eternal God, the Word became flesh (John 1:14). The One who created all things (John 1:1-3) came to earth, and a feeding trough was His bassinet! Jesus always was and always is divine, but He became human, He became flesh, that He might die for our sins (Heb. 2:14-15; 1 Pet. 2:24).

On another note, while one is visiting Caesarea on the coast, you can see the ruins of Roman columns.

Those in our photo are pink granite. These were not quarried locally, but were imported from Aswan Egypt. This reflects that because Caesarea was the Roman capital of Israel, there was sufficient wealth and resources to acquires such materials. In the background of photo you can see the theater. Remember to click on images for higher resolution.

Other Matters.

Obituary. Our friend bro. Dave Bradford passed away this past Thursday. He had served as evangelist for the church of Christ at Auburn 27 years (during part of which time he also served as elder), but for the past 6+ years had been located in Cullman AL. On numerous occasions we did radio programs together. I always enjoyed the association. He had been plagued with failing health for the past several years. Funeral services were conducted Saturday at Hoover, AL, with Bill Simmons, as well as Tom Holley, Perry Hurst and John Christian speaking. Singing was led by Doyle Bullard.

Schedule. I’m looking forward to being at Salem, IL., beginning this Sunday, for a 6-day series which will include my “Steps of Paul” series plus other lessons. Such speaking opportunities provide occasions for usage of Bible lands photos, and reinforce the historicity of the biblical record.